Submitted by the Orcas Island Sexual Health Alliance.

After 15 years of serving the Orcas community, the Island Reproductive Health Initiative is entering an exciting new chapter: reintroducing itself as the Orcas Island Sexual Health Alliance.

This evolution reflects a broader, more inclusive vision of what sexual and reproductive health care can mean for our island community. Built on a strong foundation of commitment to accessibility, OISHA’s mission is to expand education and outreach to ensure that every community member, regardless of age, gender, sexuality, documentation or reproductive wishes, has access to the care and resources they need.

“After 15 years of providing a very important resource for our island quietly in the background, we felt we needed to reintroduce ourselves to the community,” says Board President Sarah Lyle. “We want to remind folks of what we do and that we are here for everyone. Our new name and updated website reflect that commitment.”

Since its creation in 2010, following the closure of Planned Parenthood services on the island, IRHI’s impact has been outstanding: funding more than 650 clinical visits, providing over 2,000 months of contraceptive coverage and distributing more than 35,000 condoms. Now, OISHA is carrying that legacy forward. In addition to providing safer sex supplies, funding clinical services on island and offering educational programming, the organization remains committed to strengthening partnerships across the island and exploring new ways to serve the community.

“The Sexual Health Alliance’s goal is to meet islanders where they are and continue to evolve along with our community. Although we are caring for each other locally, the effects of education and health can ripple out into the world,” says Megan Vock, education director and clinical liaison.

This summer, OISHA expanded free access to emergency contraception (Plan B) by partnering with The Peach Pit and the Orcas Food Co-op, joining the existing pickup locations at Con’s Pit Stop, Orcas Community Resource Center and Ray’s Pharmacy. Thanks to a successful spring GiveOrcas campaign, OISHA also secured funding for Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives, such as IUDs and the Nexplanon arm implant. These contraceptives, along with other services, like STI testing and cervical cancer screenings, are currently available through Salish Sea Medical in Eastsound to anyone in need of free or confidential care, no current patient relationship with Dr. Camille Fleming required. Island Primary Care will also be joining as a participating provider soon.

“We want to continue breaking down stigma around sexual healthcare, foster a resilient care network that can weather the ever-changing political landscapes surrounding these issues, and above all, just make sure folks know there are real resources and support available right here on the island,” says Operations Director Shannon Kezar. “No shame, just support.”

Want to know more? Community members can find appointment information, explore OISHA’s services and stay up to date on upcoming programs at their new website, www.oisha.org. As a grassroots, community-supported nonprofit, OISHA depends on local partners and donations to keep these vital services accessible. To support its mission or make a contribution, donation information and volunteer sign-ups are available on its website.

Here’s to growth and another 15 years of local care!